The Role of Large-Scale Developments in Defining Urban Image

The Case of Mina District, Doha, Qatar

Bibliographic Data

ID22415928
AuthorsReem Awwaad (0000-0002-3469-8940, Qatar Univ.), Goze Bayram (0000-0002-6005-7397, Qatar Univ.), Amina Al-Kandari (Qatar Univ)
Year2026
Volume152
Issue3
Publication date2026-09-01
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Urban Planning and Development (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0733-9488 • E-ISSN: 1943-5444
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1061/jupddm.upeng-5958
OpenAlexW7164837064
LanguageEN
References cited29

Large-scale developments are key tools for cities competing globally and shaping their urban image. Urban spaces have become stages for identity creation and visual appeal. From iconic skylines to cultural districts, such projects define city narratives and place-based meanings. As global competition intensifies, these developments play a central role in planning discourse. This paper explores their role in shaping Doha’s image through six features: skyline, public spaces, architecture, festivals and events, urban heritage, and public art. It examines the gap between residents’ perceptions and policymakers’ projected brand image. The Mina District, an urban regeneration initiative, exemplifies governmental efforts to boost tourism and economic growth. Through a case study of Mina District, surveys and analyses evaluate the alignment between official visions and public perception. Findings reveal that large-scale developments significantly influence Doha’s image by incorporating the six key features. Based on this, the paper offers policy recommendations to guide urban planning in Doha and similar emerging cities.

City marketing · Public policy · Public space · Tourism · Urban planning · Urban tourism · Vision · Cultural Industries and Urban Development · Place Attachment and Urban Studies · Urban Planning and Governance

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